Scarlett Johansson Is Now Officially the Highest-Grossing Lead of All Time

The film industry thrives on star power, with certain actors drawing massive crowds to theaters. Their ability to headline blockbuster hits shapes their box office legacy.

We’re diving into the highest-grossing lead actors of all time, based on worldwide box office totals for films where they played starring roles. From superhero epics to sci-fi adventures, these stars have left a mark with their iconic performances.

10. Bradley Cooper

Bradley Cooper’s films have earned $11,417,543,887 across 28 projects, averaging $402,679,897 per movie. His standout role as Rocket Raccoon in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ (2014) and its sequels, including ‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019), boosted his totals with the latter grossing $2,794,731,755 globally.

Beyond voice work, Cooper’s lead in ‘A Star Is Born’ (2018), which he also directed, showcased his range, pulling in over $436 million worldwide. His mix of dramatic roles and franchise hits like ‘The Hangover’ (2009) cements his place among the elite.

9. Chris Hemsworth

With $12,082,125,179 from 27 films, Chris Hemsworth averages $442,957,869 per project. His role as Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, especially in ‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019), anchors his earnings, with the film grossing $2,794,731,755.

Hemsworth’s work extends to action-packed roles in ‘Extraction’ (2020) and ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ (2015), blending grit with charisma. His consistent draw in superhero and action genres keeps him a box office heavyweight.

8. Vin Diesel

Vin Diesel’s 28 films have grossed $12,091,815,726, averaging $431,951,467 per movie. His role as Groot in ‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019) and the ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ series, alongside his lead in the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise, like ‘Furious 7’ (2015), drives his success.

Diesel’s deep voice and tough-guy persona shine in action films, with ‘Furious 7’ alone earning $1.5 billion globally. His ability to anchor long-running franchises makes him a fan favorite.

7. Chris Evans

Chris Evans has starred in 43 films, totaling $12,091,844,410 with an average of $273,891,151 per film. His role as Captain America in ‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019), grossing $2,794,731,755, is his biggest hit.

Evans also charmed audiences in ‘Knives Out’ (2019), which earned over $300 million worldwide. His mix of superhero gravitas and versatile roles in smaller films showcases his broad appeal.

6. Tom Cruise

Tom Cruise’s 29 films have amassed $13,377,890,989, averaging $388,892,793 per movie. His top film, ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ (2022), soared to $1,478,933,621 globally, proving his enduring star power.

From ‘Mission: Impossible – Fallout’ (2018) to ‘Rain Man’ (1988), Cruise’s intense performances and daring stunts keep audiences hooked. His knack for picking high-energy projects solidifies his spot.

5. Chris Pratt

With $14,136,190,397 across 23 films, Chris Pratt averages a whopping $605,670,108 per movie. ‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019), grossing $2,794,731,755, and his lead in ‘Jurassic World’ (2015) fuel his totals.

Pratt’s charm as Star-Lord in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ (2014) and its sequels, paired with his action-hero turn in ‘Jurassic World: Dominion’ (2022), makes him a box office titan.

4. Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldaña’s 31 films have earned $14,254,606,626, with an average of $459,358,011 per project. Her role in ‘Avatar’ (2009), the highest-grossing film ever at $2,923,706,026, is her biggest win.

Saldaña’s work as Gamora in ‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019) and Neytiri in ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ (2022) shows her sci-fi dominance. Her ability to carry emotionally rich roles keeps her in demand.

3. Robert Downey Jr.

Robert Downey Jr.’s 65 films have grossed $14,346,904,626, averaging $254,705,039 per movie. His iconic role as Tony Stark in ‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019), earning $2,794,731,755, defines his career.

Downey’s work in ‘Iron Man’ (2008) and ‘Sherlock Holmes’ (2009) blends wit with intensity. His ability to anchor the Marvel Cinematic Universe makes him a cornerstone of modern blockbusters.

2. Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson’s 66 films have earned $14,827,843,117, with an average of $217,825,848 per project. His role as Nick Fury in ‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019), grossing $2,794,731,755, is his top earner.

Jackson’s prolific career spans ‘Pulp Fiction’ (1994) to ‘Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith’ (2005). His commanding presence and versatility make him a box office mainstay.

1. Scarlett Johansson

Scarlett Johansson tops the list with $14,946,161,117 across 52 films, averaging $308,651,830 per movie. Her role as Black Widow in ‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019), grossing $2,794,731,755, leads her totals.

Johansson’s work in ‘Lucy’ (2014) and ‘Marriage Story’ (2019) highlights her range, from action to drama. Her consistent draw across genres makes her a global powerhouse.

Which actor’s blockbuster run impresses you most, or is there another star you think deserves a spot? Drop your thoughts in the comments!